📖 Meaning
To speak in a low, steady voice with a calm and composed demeanor. The expression describes someone who maintains self-control and speaks gently without raising their voice, projecting quiet authority or peacefulness.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from the modern Chinese writer Bing Xin (冰心) in her essay 'To Qinglong Bridge' (《到青龙桥去》). In the passage, a character asks questions in a low and calm tone, demonstrating the phrase's meaning. Unlike many classical idioms tracing back to ancient texts, this one emerged from 20th-century vernacular literature and gained currency for its vivid depiction of a tranquil speaking manner.
💡 Example Usage
老师沉声静气地问清事情的经过，没有责备任何人。
The teacher calmly asked about the details of what happened in a low voice, without blaming anyone.
🏷️ Category
➕ Similar Idioms
➖ Opposite Idioms
🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 沉声静气
- Pinyin: chén shēng jìng qì
- Literal Translation: deep, voice, calm, breath
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4